Deferred Action Assistance Project

We are ready to answer your questions and assist you with filing your application. Please call our DACA Hotline (212-613-6597), leave your contact info, and an immigration attorney or paralegal will contact you shortly.

The Deferred Action Assistance Project, launched in July 2012, provides free direct legal assistance to young people in applying for and obtaining Deferred Action status from the U.S. government. We have assisted a great many applicants so far, the majority of whom have received Deferred Action status as a result. If you are unsure of whether you are eligible, have concerns or fears about applying, or would merely like to discuss your case with an experienced immigration attorney or paralegal, please email or call us.

The Project also offers an array of services to community-based organizations and others who work with DACA-aged individuals. Those services include, but are not limited to, community education workshops detailing the DACA application process, large or small scale application assistance workshops, screening workshops and training for social services staff on this important new immigration law process. We are always open to developing relationships with new partners, and continuing relationships with old partners, so please contact us today if you are interested in any of the above services.

The Project was created in response to the June 15th announcement by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of a new policy to provide relief for many young, undocumented immigrants. Beginning in August 2012, individuals who were brought to the United States as children, who do not present a risk to national security, and who meet certain other key criteria, will be able to apply for immigration relief through a process known as “Deferred Action” or DACA. While it is not a pathway to citizenship or a green card, Deferred Action entitles certain immigrants to receive temporary work authorization and other benefits.

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR DEFERRED ACTION IF YOU MEET ALL OF THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

1. You came to the United States before turning 16 years of age.

2. You were under the age of 31 on June 15, 2012.

3. You have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007 up to the present time, and you were present in the United States on June 15, 2012.

4. You are currently in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States. Being “in school” may mean that you are enrolled in a literacy program, GED preparedness program, or some other educational setting.

5. You have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense, multiple misdemeanor offenses, or otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

For more information or to consult with an attorney, please call NYLAG at (212) 613-6597 or email [email protected].

CHECKLIST: For a checklist of the documents you will need to file an application for Deferred Action click here.

NYLAG’s “Post. Print. Protect.” Campaign:

Changes in immigration policy, such as Deferred Action, can leave immigrant communities especially vulnerable to immigration fraud. Do your part to help!

POST this information on Facebook and Twitter.PRINT fliers to post or pass out.PROTECT your community from fraud.

Click the links below to download NYLAG’s printable flyers in the following languages:

Client Stories: Mariam

Mariam grew up in Mali in an extremely traditional, religious family where she suffered years of familial abuse. She came to the United States seeking asylum when she met attorneys from NYLAG's Immigrant Protection Unit.